9) Character creation!: Creating memorable characters *Part 2/4* /*Writing Prompt*/

In the last article we covered the 16 basic character criteria to make your book feel complete. In case you missed it, you can find that information by clicking here. So we have our basic character functions, but you may be wondering "How can I make characters people will actually remember?"

In layman's terms, it is important to make each individual character unique (DUH!). In a novel or story that has a lot of characters this can help the reader distinguish each character from another. Either by their features, their mannerisms, or their beliefs, your characters need to stand out. For example:

Harry Potter: Green eyes, lightning shaped scar
Hermione Granger: Bushy hair, buck teeth
Rubeus Hagrid: Huge, large shaggy hair and beard, black eyes

These are all physical features described that will keep the reader knowing the aesthetic differences between characters. You are able to also distinguish between your characters with any criteria really, such as: scents, speech patterns, mannerisms, habits, facial expressions etc...

When first introducing a character to your readers,(or if your character hasn't appeared for quite some time)you should express a few of these features so the reader can automatically plug this criteria in their heads so that the next time they appear they know who they are! Minor characters usually only need a couple of these features while major characters should have a pretty long list. However, major characters should have their features sprinkled in throughout the story as to learn more about them as you spend more time with them.

But with all this being said, isn't the characters name enough? The short answer is no. Readers want to get to know their characters major and minor. Your story will feel a lot more complete the more detail you are able to spit at the reader. While we're on the topic of names I better give you some sound advice. Try to steer away from giving a handful of characters the same name. There is no need for a Robert, Bob, Roberto and Rob! This will only make who's who more confusing even if you set your features for each one to be entirely different. AND BE CONSISTENT! DO NOT refer to a character as both Robert and Bob! You're readers will be left scratching their heads.

Now go forth and forge your story!

-Derek

/*Writing Prompt*/
Using your characters from last weeks article give them some unique features and write a few scenes introducing them to your readers.

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